Leinster fly-half Jonathan Sexton has admitted he was keen to stay at the province rather than move to Racing Metro.

The Ireland No.10 will link up with his new side at the end of the season on what is understood to be a huge deal. But Sexton has revealed his preferred choice would have been to stay with Leinster but he failed to agree a contract with the Irish Rugby Football Union.

And Sexton claims had he dealt directly with Leinster rather than the IRFU then he would probably be lining up for the RaboDirect PRO12 side next year rather than the Top 14 club.

"Leinster still is a massive part of my life, not just my career but my personal life as well," Sexton told the Irish Examiner. "A lot of my best friends are guys that I have been playing rugby with since I was 15 or 16. It was never between me and Leinster.

"If me and Leinster sat down I'm sure I would be there next year but that's not the way it works. That's unfortunate but, listen, once these next three (Leinster) games are finished and the small matter of a Lions tour is over, I can start to get excited about a new challenge in my life.

And Sexton is keen to fully immerse himself in the French culture when he completes his move. Sexton added: "The club have been great in helping me get organised. I know a good few of the players and it's very exciting the quality of players they have signed for next year.

"There's a lot of English-speaking guys which will help me settle in, but I am determined to make an impression on the French guys as well."